BANGOR — Robert Douglas Polley, 72, of Corinth and Dexter, died Nov. 25, at a Bangor hospital following a massive stroke.

He was born Sept. 11, 1938, in Lewiston, a son of Herbert and Hazel ( Douglas) Polley.

Robert graduated from Edward Little High School, Auburn, Class of 1957, where he studied mechanical drawing, machine shop and business courses. He was employed as a welder, tool and die maker with Auburn Die Co. and later, at Dexter Shoe Co. in Dexter. He retired as a part-time groundskeeper and maintenance man for the Town of Sangerville.

In the early 1990s, Robert took a short term missions trip with Joshua House Communications to bring medical supplies and Bibles to the impoverished areas of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster in the Ukraine.

Robert attended the Dexter Pentecostal Church before he became ill, and enjoyed singing in the choir and playing his guitar with the worship orchestra. His favorite scriptures included Psalm 23, Proverbs 3:5-6 and John 3:16. When asked about his faith, Robert would often remark, “I’m just a sinner…saved by God’s grace.”

Robert enjoyed organic gardening, sharing the abundance of his harvest with friends, co-workers and neighbors. He loved to fish and celebrated when he received his Maine Resident Lifetime Fishing License.

He looked forward to dining out with his family, attending potluck dinners at church and perusing the food venues at the local fairgrounds. During his last day on earth, he was on his way to the restaurant with his family for Thanksgiving dinner, but God had another plan. Surrounded by his family, he slipped into the loving arms of his Savior that evening.

Robert is survived by his youngest brother, Norman and wife, Tina Polley, of Augusta; his six children, three from his first marriage to Pauline (Alperman) Demers of Lantana, Fla.: Michael and wife, Donna Polley, of Durham, Lisa Polley of Auburn and Jill Polley of Turner; three children from a second marriage to Ada May (Miller) Falkingham of Parkman: Christopher and wife, Veronica Polley, of Guilford, Thomas and wife, Mary Polley, of Sangerville and Carrie Lynn Coney of Parkman; Robert had eight grandchildren, Jasmin, Colette, Owen and Jared Polley, David Gagne, Riley Gilpatrick, Leeo Coney Jr. and Quentin Polley; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by a son, Jonathan Polley; three infant sisters; and a brother, Wallace Polley of Aroostook County.

Those who wish may leave written condolences at www.CrosbyNeal.com.